BROAD PEAK EXPEDITION (8,047m)

Broad Peak Overview (8,047 m)

The Broad Peak expedition is very doable. It is the 12th-highest mountain, next to K2 and Gasherbrum peaks. Broad Peak, on the Pakistan–China border, rises to 8,051 meters in the Karakoram Range. Also known as Falchan Kangri, it is famous for its wide summit ridge, stretching over 1.5 kilometers. Moreover, the mountain presents challenging high-altitude climbing, with steep ice slopes, crevassed glaciers, and unpredictable weather. Located near legendary peaks such as K2 and Gasherbrum I & II, it is a prime objective for experienced mountaineers. Due to its size, technical demands, and remote location, Broad Peak remains one of the most iconic and revered high-altitude expeditions in the Karakoram.

History & First Ascent

First climbed on June 9, 1957, by the Austrian team: Fritz Wintersteller, Marcus Schmuck, Kurt Diemberger, and Hermann Buhl. The first attempt was on May 29. Modern climbers now ascend via the snow face to Camp II (6,400 m) and Camp III (7,400 m) in their broad peak expedition.

Expedition Difficulty

Broad Peak is a physically and mentally demanding climb. As such, it tests a climber’s endurance, stamina, and resilience at extreme altitudes. Therefore, success on this 8,000-meter peak usually requires prior experience on peaks above 6,800 meters. Such experience, in turn, helps climbers handle thin air, extreme cold, and prolonged high-altitude exposure.

Moreover, the summit climb is steep in sections but manageable for well-acclimatized climbers. However, it still demands careful pacing, strength, and focus. In addition, the weather can change rapidly, bringing snow, high winds, or sudden storms. Furthermore, the glacial terrain adds hazards such as hidden crevasses and unstable ice. Consequently, climbers need technical skills in rope work, crampons, and crevasse rescue.

Overall, Broad Peak offers a spectacular high-altitude climbing experience. Nonetheless, it requires thorough preparation, careful planning, and respect for the mountain’s inherent risks.

Name Of Peak Broad Peak

Elevation 8047-M

Ranked 12th(4th in Pakistan)

Base Camp Height 4800-M

Range Karakorum-Baltoro Skardu

Duration 62 Days

Best Period June to August

Days 1–3: Arrival & Transfer to Skardu

Day 1: Arrive at Islamabad International Airport. Private transfer to the hotel. Rest and acclimatize.
Day 2: Scenic flight to Skardu (weather dependent) or drive via Chilas. Overnight in Chilas if driving.
Day 3: Acclimatization and local sightseeing in Skardu or complete the road journey.

Days 4–6: Trek to Baltoro Glacier

Day 4: Rest day in Skardu. Gear check, packing, and final preparation.
Day 5: Jeep ride to Askole (96 km, 7–8 hrs, 3,050m). Last human settlement before the glacier wilderness.
Day 6: Trek to Jhula (18–20 km, 6–7 hrs, 3,150m) along Braldu River. Camp at Jhula.

Days 7–8: Trek to Paiju & Acclimatization

Day 7: Trek Jhula → Paiju (7–8 hrs, 3,418m). Gradual climb with scenic glacier views.
Day 8: Rest and acclimatization at Paiju. Optional ridge walk and photography. Cultural immersion with local porters.

Days 9–12: Entering the Baltoro Glacier & High Camps

Day 9: Paiju → Khuburse (6–8 hrs, 3,795m). First major glacier trek; camp with views of Trango Towers.
Day 10: Khuburse → Urdukas (6–8 km, 4,130m). Short trek for acclimatization and scenic rest.
Day 11: Urdukas → Ghoro II (6–7 hrs, 4,280m). Enter the central glacier, with views of Gasherbrum IV and Masherbrum.
Day 12: Ghoro II → Concordia (14 km, 5–6 hrs, 4,720m). Stand at the legendary glacier confluence with K2 and Gasherbrum peaks in view.

Day 13: Broad Peak Base Camp (BPBC)

Trek Concordia → BPBC (2–4 hrs, 4,840m). Settle into high-altitude camp. Full support: tents, dining, medical, and communication. Final acclimatization before summit push.

Days 14–42: Summit Rotation

Phase I: Move from BPBC → Camp III (7,300m). Gear checks, oxygen prep, and short rest.
Phase II: Summit push (8,051m). Pre-dawn departure. Navigate snow, ice, and fixed ropes. Rocky Foresummit (8,035m) is the key challenge.
Phase III: Summit → Descend. Focus on energy, hydration, and safety. Return to Camp III/II after summit.

Days 43–44: Descent & Cleanup

Day 43: BPBC cleanup. Strict ‘Leave No Trace’ policy.
Day 44: Trek back to Skardu via Askole (3–4 days) or optional Gondogoro La Pass (challenging 4-day traverse, 5,585m pass).

Days 45–46: Skardu → Islamabad

Fly or drive back via the Karakoram Highway and Babusar Pass. Overnight in Islamabad.

Days 50–51: Debrief & Departure

Day 50: Alpine Club debrief and cultural city tour in Islamabad.
Day 51: Private airport transfer. Depart with lifelong memories.

1. Where is Broad Peak located?
Broad Peak (8,051 m / 26,414 ft) is located in the Baltoro Karakoram Range, near K2, on the Pakistan–China border.

2. Why is it called Broad Peak?
It is named for its long, broad summit ridge, which stretches over 1.5 km.

3. How long does the expedition take?
The expedition usually takes 45–55 days, including travel, Baltoro trek, acclimatization, and summit attempt.

4. What is the best time to climb Broad Peak?
The ideal season is late June to early August.

5. How difficult is Broad Peak?
It is considered one of the more accessible 8,000m peaks, but still extremely demanding due to altitude and exposure.

6. Is prior 8,000m experience required?
Strongly recommended. Climbers should have solid experience on 7,000m peaks and strong high-altitude endurance.

7. What route is commonly used?
Most climbers follow the Normal Route via the West Ridge.

8. Where does the expedition begin?
The journey starts in Islamabad, followed by travel to Skardu, then a 7–8 day trek via the Baltoro Glacier to base camp.

9. What camps are established on Broad Peak?
Typically:

Base Camp (~4,900 m)
Camp 1 (~5,600 m)
Camp 2 (~6,200 m)
Camp 3 (~7,000 m)
Camp 4 (~7,500–7,800 m)

10. Are climbing permits required?
Yes. A government-issued climbing permit is mandatory and arranged through a licensed operator.

11. What are the main risks?
Extreme cold, avalanches, crevasses, summit ridge exposure, and altitude-related illnesses.

12. Is supplemental oxygen used?
Many climbers attempt Broad Peak without oxygen, though some choose to use it above 7,000 m.

13. What is included in the package?
Climbing permit, liaison officer, base camp logistics, trekking services, meals during trek, fixed ropes, and support staff.

14. What is not included?
International airfare, personal climbing equipment, oxygen (if optional), insurance, personal guide (if optional), tips, and personal expenses.

15. Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. Careful acclimatization and strict health monitoring are essential.

16. What makes Broad Peak popular?
Its proximity to K2, comparatively straightforward route, and reputation as a common first 8,000m peak.

Services Included

Liaison with the Ministry of Tourism in Islamabad for the climbing permit process, providing the appointed Liaison officer’s measurements for his prescribed kit.
Process during import/export permit from the Ministry of Tourism.
Clearance of cargo before the arrival of the team and its storage.
Assistance upon arrival/departure.
Official Briefing/Debriefing.
Hotel accommodation in Rawalpindi/Islamabad, Chilas.
All meals during the trek and at B.C. as per the itinerary.
Porterage of 75 kg per person of expedition equipment and high altitude food, etc., to the B.C., and 50 kg per person on return from B.C.
Road transfers between the airport/hotel and within the city as per the itinerary.
Sleeping tents, mattresses, mess, kitchen, and toilet tent with tables/field stools and camping ground fees.
Kitchen equipment, crockery, cutlery, fuel, and related community gear.
Wages and basic kit of guide, sirdar, cook, and assistant(s).
Insurance for our field staff and low-altitude porters (except for helicopter rescue).
Porterage at airports, hotels, toll taxes, and parking fees, etc.
Mail handling/forwarding to B.C./overseas except for postage charges.
Reconfirmation of air tickets.
Hiring of HAPs, mail runner(s), and any other crew as per requirement. (Wages and kit to be arranged by the team).

Services not Included

International & domestic airfare, airport tax, and excess baggage charges.
High altitude porters/any crew above B.C.
Helicopter emergency rescue fees (refundable if not used)
High altitude tents, sleeping bags, personal and climbing equipment of any kind beyond base camp, including high altitude food and oxygen.
Medications, ground evacuations, and helicopter rescue charges of any kind.
Room services, laundry, beverages, phone/communication bills, and items of a personal nature.
Insurance liability of member (s) and other under force majeure conditions.
Climbing Permit, Pollution and Environmental fee, or any other payment required to be paid to Pakistan’s Government.
Clearing agent charges.
Members climb gears
Member’s personal insurance
High altitude food
High altitude porter
Any other service not mentioned in the above list

Budget-Friendly Tour and Trekking

All our tours and treks are budget-friendly, without compromising comfort or service quality. At Visit in Pakistan, we take pride in delivering reliable service, which is why many clients choose to travel with us again. Moreover, our premium services are equally appreciated by corporate groups, business travelers, and high-profile clients. From affordable adventures to luxury experiences, our Five 8,000 m Base Camp Trek is a perfect example of the quality we offer.

Experienced Local Team for Your Journey

Our certified mountain guides and porters are born and raised in Baltistan. Therefore, they know every rock, glacier, and trail. With decades of experience, they make your journey safe, seamless, and unforgettable.

Tailor-Made Itineraries

We customize each itinerary to match your schedule, budget, and interests. From flight bookings to basecamp logistics, our team manages everything. As a result, you can focus entirely on enjoying the TREK and tour experience.

Safety and 24/7 Backup Support

Your safety and comfort come first. In addition, we provide full backup support, including rescue coordination, reliable transportation, and on-ground communication. This ensures peace of mind throughout your adventure.

Tour Reviews

5.00 based on 1 review

Alberto & Fellows

July 22, 2021

The successful attempt could not have been possible without the help of experienced guides and support staff of Visit in Pakistan Treks, Tours & Expeditions, who provided invaluable assistance and guidance throughout the expedition. The camaraderie and teamwork displayed by Visit in Pakistan Company group are truly impressive, and the memories of this successful attempt will surely be cherished for years to come.

Overall, a successful attempt at the Broad Peak Expedition is an incredible achievement and a testament to our strength, determination, and love for adventure. We love to pass our Congratulations on this amazing accomplishment! to all those who stayed connected with us.
We recommend visit in Pakistan Treks, Tours & Expeditions for such a wonderful and successful accomplishments.

BROAD PEAK EXPEDITION (8,047m)

Broad Peak Overview (8,047 m)

History & First Ascent